Effects of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles on vermicomposting of dewatered sludge: studies based on the humification and microbial profiles of vermicompost

Nanoparticles (NPs) are prevalent in dewatered sludge, and their presence increases the environmental risks associated with the subsequent sludge treatment process. However, until now, their potential effects on sludge vermicomposting have not been clarified. This study investigated the effects of NPs on sludge humification and microbial profiles during vermicomposting by comparing fresh dewatered sludge substrates with substrates mixed with 0 mg/kg NPs (control), 100 mg/kg TiO2, 500 mg/kg TiO2, 100 mg/kg ZnO, and 500 mg/kg ZnO. The results showed that addition of TiO2 and ZnO NPs to sludge did not significantly affect the growth rate of earthworms and the superoxide dismutase activity in their guts during vermicomposting. Moreover, higher concentrations of the selected NPs promoted the humification index of sludge by 20.7-49.6%, through the formation of polysaccharides, aromatic substances, and organic acids in final vermicomposts. Compared with the control without NP addition, bacterial community diversity was enhanced in treatments with TiO2 and ZnO NPs, and dominant genera differed according to the type and concentration of NPs. This study suggests that the presence of TiO2 and ZnO NP residuals modify the microbial community of sludge, thus promoting sludge humification during vermicomposting.

Automated summary

The study showed that the presence of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles did not significantly affect the growth rate of earthworms and their superoxide dismutase activity during vermicomposting. However, higher concentrations of the nanoparticles promoted the humification of sludge and enhanced bacterial diversity. Furthermore, the study found that the presence of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticle residuals modified the microbial community of sludge, hence promoting sludge humification during vermicomposting.